What is the normal postprandial glucose level?

The normal postprandial glucose level usually refers to the blood glucose level two hours after a meal. Normally, the blood glucose level two hours after eating should be between 4.4 and 7.8 mmol/L.

Two-hour postprandial blood glucose, also known as the two-hour oral glucose tolerance test, should be below 7.8 mmol/L (140 mg/dL) to be considered within the normal range. If the postprandial glucose level is less than 4.4 mmol/L, it typically indicates hypoglycemia, and patients may experience symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, and tremors. In such cases, consuming carbohydrate-containing foods can help improve the condition. If the two-hour postprandial blood glucose level is between 7.8 and 11.1 mmol/L (140-199 mg/dL), it may suggest impaired glucose tolerance, which is a prediabetic state. However, within this range, hypoglycemic medications are generally not required directly. Adjusting diet and increasing physical activity can help maintain blood glucose within the normal range. A two-hour postprandial blood glucose level of ≥11.1 mmol/L (200 mg/dL), meets the criteria for diabetes mellitus. In this case, further relevant tests are needed, and consultation with a physician regarding drug therapy is recommended.

Postprandial blood glucose levels are influenced by various factors including diet, physical activity, and emotional status. Therefore, standardized procedures should be followed during testing, such as fasting for at least 8 hours, followed by consumption of a fixed amount of glucose-containing food, and measuring blood glucose at specific time points after the meal.